Bush, ``We Are at War``

Declaring that ``we are at war.`` the U.S. President George W. Bush directed members of the armed forces to get ready. Meanwhile, he issued an ultimatum to Afghanistan.

President Bush singled out Osama bin Laden, who is hiding in Afghanistan, as a main suspect in Tuesday`s attacks.

In relation to this, White House said that President Bush was considering sending ground troops. Boston Globe also reported on Saturday that the U.S. attack against Afghanistan could be a full-scale war.

LA Times reported yesterday that the core of new war against terrorism is not only to eliminate Osama bin Laden but also to crush the Islam terrorist organizations and other terrorist organizations. It is also to stop terrorist protecting nations` support.

Pakistan newspaper reported that the U.S. aircraft carriers were moving to the Middle Eastern areas, and 50 U.S. special agents already arrived in Pakistan and seemed to have begun the mission to eliminate bin Laden.

Japanese media reported yesterday that the U.S. Aegis ship Kaupence left for the Arabian Sea from Yokoska base in Japan on Saturday, and Cartis Wilbur and Vincent plan to launch tomorrow.

Britain`s Daily Telegraph reported that the U.S. oil tanker were moving to supply the fighter-bomber with oil, and the U.S. airborne division unit 82 and the unit 101 were ready to leave for the Middle East.

In the midst of the U.S. preparation for the attacks against Afghanistan, Russia and some European countries said that although retaliation was necessary, it was also necessary to have more serious consideration for the military retaliation. The U.S. major media including New York Times also pointed out that the range, object, and time of retaliation should be carefully decided.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan government was reported to have agreed to open the territorial sky, to allow the stationing of the multinational military troops, and to block the border with Afghanistan to prevent the escape of bin Laden. However, the Pakistan government requested the U.S. to have an agreement from the UN before launching military action.

Cho Hun-Joo hanscho@donga.com